US Endowment for Forestry & Communities:
An obsolete building repurposed to create innovative collaborative workspaces. Over 1/2 of the pervious surfaces on the site were restored to an urban forest setting to reduce storm water run off and cool the site. Rain water from the roof is collected into a 1,200 gallon cistern that provides the native plant landscape irrigation. Dry stream beds collect rain water and redistribute to the water table instead of the public storm water infrastructure. The building design focuses on an extensive use of natural day lighting, so the foundation associates can enjoy the health benefits of ample, natural day light. Building materials were largely repurposed and/or recycled from the original structure while sustainably forested wood products are featured. Energy efficiency is achieved through the use of a reflective roof, increased roof insulation, right-sized energy efficient HVAC equipment, and limited use of energy for lighting.
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